Cottage Pie

I LOVE Shepherd’s Pie! I used to make it with all the veggies and creamy mashed potatoes but since going low carb, I had not made a replacement version. Truthfully, I was not sure it would be as good.

I am very pleased with Chef Scott’s version of this! Not having all the higher carb veggies like peas and carrots did not detract from the flavor at all! I didn’t even miss them actually. I am also getting used to cooking with Anise seed, and it is lovely! Try it! It really gives it a nice flavor.

I do realize some might be put off by having cauliflower as a mashed potato replacement, but I like it.
I have also learned some tricks to make it palatable so that even my kids like it now! (or at least tolerate it 😆).

If you want a quick recipe that virtually uses one pan, you can even make ahead to pop in the oven after work OR double the recipe for a family gathering, THIS IS A WINNER! You can find out how to get the cookbook on my Resources page.

TIPS & SHORTCUTS

I did a few things differently to save time and although following the recipe to the letter will give it a superior taste, sometimes you just have to improvise.

I just browned the meat and then added the veg and spices and herbs to the pan. It seemed to work ‘OK’, (although his way would give it a MUCH better flavor).

I also didn’t realize I did not have beef broth! So, I just used water, and it was also “OK’. Beef broth would have been ideal, but did not stop me from completing the dish. I drained it at the end. My husband said it was really good. He didn’t know any of what I did. 😊

For the cauliflower mash, I used already riced cauliflower that I microwaved in a bag. I am not sure how healthy that is, but there it is. 😆 Although I find fresh steamed cauliflower mashes and purees better, this turned out fine. I used an immersion blender right in the same bowl. I also didn’t have chicken broth, so I added a little cream I had left and some half-n-half, along with some cheese and it was perfect!​ I topped it with a little smoked paprika and parsley, along with the Parmesan cheese. It was just the touch it needed. Chef’s Scott’s suggestion of crumbled bacon would also be awesome!

So, there you have it. My version of the recipe with all its mistakes and flaws. LOL It is a great recipe, doesn’t take a lot of ingredients or time to make, and I am thrilled to have one of my favorite “comfort food” dishes in a low carb version!
​🌸Enjoy!